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The Harvesting #2.5
Witch Wood
Harm none, and be ready for zombies.
Amelia’s practice of Wicca marks her as a curiosity both at home and at school. Knowing how to see auras, heal, and cast spells comes naturally to her. Only Madame Knightly, the ancient matriarch and owner of Witch Wood Estate, doesn’t seem to mind.
When modern treatments fail to make a dent in the flu outbreak sweeping the globe, those who once ridiculed Amelia's white witchcraft turn to her for help. While her eucalyptus tinctures prove no more effective than western medicine, her spell-casting is another matter.
The residents of Brighton may soon depend on the very magic they once ridiculed to save their lives.
Amelia’s practice of Wicca marks her as a curiosity both at home and at school. Knowing how to see auras, heal, and cast spells comes naturally to her. Only Madame Knightly, the ancient matriarch and owner of Witch Wood Estate, doesn’t seem to mind.
When modern treatments fail to make a dent in the flu outbreak sweeping the globe, those who once ridiculed Amelia's white witchcraft turn to her for help. While her eucalyptus tinctures prove no more effective than western medicine, her spell-casting is another matter.
The residents of Brighton may soon depend on the very magic they once ridiculed to save their lives.
108 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2015
83 people are currently reading
357 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Karsak
90 books1,722 followersNew York Times and USA Today best-selling historical fantasy author Melanie Karsak is the author of the Celtic Blood series, Steampunk Red Riding Hood, Steampunk Fairy Tales, the Road to Valhalla Series, and other works of fantasy and fiction. The author currently lives in Florida with her husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
November 13, 2023
In this fourth installment of The Harvesting, the genre bending, zombie apocalypse, horror-fantasy titled Witch Wood, written by Melanie Karsak, our cast of characters is once again left in a state of suspension while the reader learns of another set of characters, and how they have fared in this apocalyptic world.
Like the novel between the first and the second books, the half designation is used as an opportunity to prologue and write about characters that will become important in the subsequent book. Luckily, I acquired all five installments at one time, or I might have had a difficult time following along. I continue to love the mixture of characters which is a hodge-podge mix of human, fantasy, horror tropes: fae, vampires, zombies, and more.
The Harvesting is a kitchen-sink type of series which has led to an innovative mix that I have found fantastic because of its distinctive take on the zombie apocalypse. This novella was too short in length, but almost perfect story-wise.
Like the novel between the first and the second books, the half designation is used as an opportunity to prologue and write about characters that will become important in the subsequent book. Luckily, I acquired all five installments at one time, or I might have had a difficult time following along. I continue to love the mixture of characters which is a hodge-podge mix of human, fantasy, horror tropes: fae, vampires, zombies, and more.
The Harvesting is a kitchen-sink type of series which has led to an innovative mix that I have found fantastic because of its distinctive take on the zombie apocalypse. This novella was too short in length, but almost perfect story-wise.
December 11, 2015
Karsak takes us to Brighton and introduces us to Amelia, a young teen who practices Wicca. I adored Amelia from the start. She is strong, confident, caring and knows exactly who she is. Such confidence is rare in one so young and was refreshing. She can see auras, heal and is good with herbal remedies. Amelia follows her own path. While she is not overly popular, she does have friends but spends her weekends and free time at Witch Wood Estate caring for Madame Knightly.
Witch Wood Estate was delightful and I would love to spend my weekends traipsing the grounds and explore all the unique nooks and crannies of the old manor. Madame Knightly is unique, colorful and a soothing soul to be around. Interaction between them was that of student and mentor, but there was also a tenderness there.
An epidemic flu virus is plaguing the nation. Schools are closing and whole cities are shutting down. In Witch Wood, the epidemic finally hits Brighton and Karsak lets us experience the horror along with the characters. We get some intense scenes, and witness the friends working together which created some nail-biting moments.
As has become so typical of Karsak’s books Witch Wood leaves us with a cliffhanger just as she makes a shocking reveal. Curse her I say! Curse her. I need the next book!! While, Karsak claims this book works as a standalone and indeed it does I do feel the experience will be enhanced by having read the earlier books. This way you can bask in her brilliance and pine for the next book with me.
Copy provided by author This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
Witch Wood Estate was delightful and I would love to spend my weekends traipsing the grounds and explore all the unique nooks and crannies of the old manor. Madame Knightly is unique, colorful and a soothing soul to be around. Interaction between them was that of student and mentor, but there was also a tenderness there.
An epidemic flu virus is plaguing the nation. Schools are closing and whole cities are shutting down. In Witch Wood, the epidemic finally hits Brighton and Karsak lets us experience the horror along with the characters. We get some intense scenes, and witness the friends working together which created some nail-biting moments.
As has become so typical of Karsak’s books Witch Wood leaves us with a cliffhanger just as she makes a shocking reveal. Curse her I say! Curse her. I need the next book!! While, Karsak claims this book works as a standalone and indeed it does I do feel the experience will be enhanced by having read the earlier books. This way you can bask in her brilliance and pine for the next book with me.
Copy provided by author This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
August 27, 2022
This shorter book profiles an area called Brighton that succumbs to the virus that is taking over. Set around the local high school, there is a girl who practices Wicca / Witchcraft and is teased by the stereotypical spoilt brat type. During the course of the story, we learn how the infection spreads and how it affects the people and their families in the neighbourhood. This book is particularly well written from the perspective of a young woman who actually celebrates the Sabbats, knows auras and deals with energy working - a nice change from someone who is all powerful and blasts fireballs from her hands. I was also impressed by the name of the cat being Bastet, which was a particularly nice touch. As with the other books, friends and loved ones have battles to fight and lose people dear to them and the story leads seamlessly to a conclusion that develops things nicely for the final book in the series.
Although this book has more of a young adult feel to it than the others, the characters stand out and will fit in well with the others for things to come.
Although this book has more of a young adult feel to it than the others, the characters stand out and will fit in well with the others for things to come.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2016
Yup. Zombies. I know.
But it's a different angle on the zombie apocalypse, for once, which is pretty remarkable considering the sheer number of angles that have already been covered. This is the story of the beginning of the troubles (which has been done, but which I tend to enjoy); the central character is a teenaged girl (which has been done also, in fact in something I listened to not long ago (though that was simply apocalypse, sans zombies)). This girl, Amelia, basically survives the falling apart of things because she is a practicing Wiccan (and that would be the different take).
In my decrepit old age, teenaged enthusiasm can be a bit wearing, and Amelia's passion for her Craft is that. She is enthusiasm personified, and unafraid to exhibit it. For me it was a little difficult to swallow when she confabbed with trees and shrubbery (though in point of fact a little more information would have gone a long way there; the trees responded, in a way, but if it had been more useful or functional I would have been more accepting of it). When her energy feels strained, she informs the listener, "I needed to get back to the house and drink some chamomile tea and dab myself with a couple drops of lavender oil." Of course you did. It didn't help that her prayers and inner comments were recorded with an echo effect.
In addition to being a virtuous white witch, she's a rather holier-than-thou vegetarian (which can be truly obnoxious) (and vegetarians NEVER get sick), and obviously she's very green:
Well, no, it could be that he had to swerve around you and was unhappy about the possibility of a teenager-shaped dent in his truck. That's usually my reason. And depending on the type of truck he's driving and why, he might not have a choice. It's a little hard to carry, say, lumber on a bike. Truly, while I honor any attempt to make the world better and the "harm none" credo, none of this makes for actual sanctity, nor does it necessarily make a stance of righteous piety palatable.
I've seen the fandom in the social media, so when she tells her friend that for Halloween "I was thinking Harley Quinn" I was less than shocked. Anyway. There she is with her friends looking forward to college and dances and so on … but there's a "flu" epidemic going on, and it's only getting worse. Much worse. And I admit it was a little poignant to read about their plans, knowing and all.
I'm not sure the – what was she, sixteen? – year-old voice felt too authentic. High-school-esque phrases like "loaded with" abound – repeated often – but I've been trying to remember if I knew what a bandolier was at that age. The narration was good (except for that echo effect), though Amelia's speaking voice was higher and girlier than the rest; I suppose that's supposed to imply that adult Amelia is telling the tale.
I did like that the Craft gave the girl the ability to see the plague, and that she has a true healing power; she alleviates some of her mother's symptoms early on. But it bothered me that, while she took literally a moment to lay a protective spell on a friend, she didn't do it for her best friend – or for her beloved mom, who is a nurse at a hospital overrun with "flu" victims.
Amelia has a part-time job looking after an elderly woman in the titular estate Witch Wood. The girl suspects Madame Knightley might have a touch of the Wicca about her herself, but she's never admitted it. Which may or may not make sense. (What may also not make sense is that there is only one entrance to the mansion. I lived in a fairly small house my whole life, and there were three doors to the outside world. I mean, if the place was built more than a hundred years ago, which was my impression, there would almost certainly be a servants' entrance, at least) This is what Amelia believes will be a safe place when things really begin to hit the fan, and basically the entirety of the plot is her leaving early on to check on her mother, and then trying to get back with companions. There's some interesting stuff that goes on, but it all ends rather abruptly. The novella, part of a series, can be read by itself – it's a separate storyline altogether – but the end makes it all basically a promo for the next book. A bit frustrating.
Less-than-stellar bit: "The handle had been carved with unusual markings" … "'That's unusual,' I said."
I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the narrator in exchange for an unbiased review via AudiobookBlast.com.
But it's a different angle on the zombie apocalypse, for once, which is pretty remarkable considering the sheer number of angles that have already been covered. This is the story of the beginning of the troubles (which has been done, but which I tend to enjoy); the central character is a teenaged girl (which has been done also, in fact in something I listened to not long ago (though that was simply apocalypse, sans zombies)). This girl, Amelia, basically survives the falling apart of things because she is a practicing Wiccan (and that would be the different take).
In my decrepit old age, teenaged enthusiasm can be a bit wearing, and Amelia's passion for her Craft is that. She is enthusiasm personified, and unafraid to exhibit it. For me it was a little difficult to swallow when she confabbed with trees and shrubbery (though in point of fact a little more information would have gone a long way there; the trees responded, in a way, but if it had been more useful or functional I would have been more accepting of it). When her energy feels strained, she informs the listener, "I needed to get back to the house and drink some chamomile tea and dab myself with a couple drops of lavender oil." Of course you did. It didn't help that her prayers and inner comments were recorded with an echo effect.
In addition to being a virtuous white witch, she's a rather holier-than-thou vegetarian (which can be truly obnoxious) (and vegetarians NEVER get sick), and obviously she's very green:
A lone truck swerved around me, the driver shouting something incomprehensible out the window. Drivers always seem to have some odd contempt for bicyclists, like we reminded them that they should be biking or walking or doing something other than polluting the earth with exhaust fumes.
Well, no, it could be that he had to swerve around you and was unhappy about the possibility of a teenager-shaped dent in his truck. That's usually my reason. And depending on the type of truck he's driving and why, he might not have a choice. It's a little hard to carry, say, lumber on a bike. Truly, while I honor any attempt to make the world better and the "harm none" credo, none of this makes for actual sanctity, nor does it necessarily make a stance of righteous piety palatable.
I've seen the fandom in the social media, so when she tells her friend that for Halloween "I was thinking Harley Quinn" I was less than shocked. Anyway. There she is with her friends looking forward to college and dances and so on … but there's a "flu" epidemic going on, and it's only getting worse. Much worse. And I admit it was a little poignant to read about their plans, knowing and all.
I'm not sure the – what was she, sixteen? – year-old voice felt too authentic. High-school-esque phrases like "loaded with" abound – repeated often – but I've been trying to remember if I knew what a bandolier was at that age. The narration was good (except for that echo effect), though Amelia's speaking voice was higher and girlier than the rest; I suppose that's supposed to imply that adult Amelia is telling the tale.
I did like that the Craft gave the girl the ability to see the plague, and that she has a true healing power; she alleviates some of her mother's symptoms early on. But it bothered me that, while she took literally a moment to lay a protective spell on a friend, she didn't do it for her best friend – or for her beloved mom, who is a nurse at a hospital overrun with "flu" victims.
Amelia has a part-time job looking after an elderly woman in the titular estate Witch Wood. The girl suspects Madame Knightley might have a touch of the Wicca about her herself, but she's never admitted it. Which may or may not make sense. (What may also not make sense is that there is only one entrance to the mansion. I lived in a fairly small house my whole life, and there were three doors to the outside world. I mean, if the place was built more than a hundred years ago, which was my impression, there would almost certainly be a servants' entrance, at least) This is what Amelia believes will be a safe place when things really begin to hit the fan, and basically the entirety of the plot is her leaving early on to check on her mother, and then trying to get back with companions. There's some interesting stuff that goes on, but it all ends rather abruptly. The novella, part of a series, can be read by itself – it's a separate storyline altogether – but the end makes it all basically a promo for the next book. A bit frustrating.
Less-than-stellar bit: "The handle had been carved with unusual markings" … "'That's unusual,' I said."
I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the narrator in exchange for an unbiased review via AudiobookBlast.com.
December 14, 2016
Original Review @ Naomi’s Reading Palace
It's been a year since I have ventured into the Harvesting world, and I forget how much I love it! In Witch Wood I met new characters, that I can tell are going to be a big part in the final book, The Torn World. Each book has been full of danger and the characters are continuing to seek help, so I'm looking forward to see how it all comes together and whether or not the world can be saved.
I enjoyed getting to know Amelia and to see what she went through when the plague hit her area. She also had a gift that may become very valuable in the search for a cure. I liked seeing her band together with her friends, to get to Witch Wood, and to the safety it provided. It was sad to see what each of them lost along the way though, and the danger was constantly there.
This was a great little gap book in the series that allowed me to get to know Amelia before venturing into the final book. I loved the way that the author fleshed out these characters and introduced me to the world Layla, Cricket and the gang walked into at the end of The Shadow Aspect. It was a quick, action packed read that I devoured quickly, and I know I need to get that final book ASAP!
Complimentary copy provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.
It's been a year since I have ventured into the Harvesting world, and I forget how much I love it! In Witch Wood I met new characters, that I can tell are going to be a big part in the final book, The Torn World. Each book has been full of danger and the characters are continuing to seek help, so I'm looking forward to see how it all comes together and whether or not the world can be saved.
I enjoyed getting to know Amelia and to see what she went through when the plague hit her area. She also had a gift that may become very valuable in the search for a cure. I liked seeing her band together with her friends, to get to Witch Wood, and to the safety it provided. It was sad to see what each of them lost along the way though, and the danger was constantly there.
This was a great little gap book in the series that allowed me to get to know Amelia before venturing into the final book. I loved the way that the author fleshed out these characters and introduced me to the world Layla, Cricket and the gang walked into at the end of The Shadow Aspect. It was a quick, action packed read that I devoured quickly, and I know I need to get that final book ASAP!
Complimentary copy provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.
November 26, 2019
Introduced to new characters and new supernatural powers. We are whisked away to the town
of Brighton where the epidemic sweeps through quickly. Another great read that left me eager
for the next book.
of Brighton where the epidemic sweeps through quickly. Another great read that left me eager
for the next book.
February 13, 2016
(RabidReads.com)In the small town of Brighton, the flu is just beginning to take hold. School hasn’t been closed yet, but it’s the last hold out in the county. Teenager, Amelia, is a white witch, one that has been ridiculed as far back as she can remember. She doesn’t know it, but when she leaves school that day, nothing will ever be the same for her or anyone else in her town.
This is the second novella in the four stories that have been written so far, about this dystopian world, or the zombie apocalypse-if you want to call it that. The author has taken that premise and added all sorts of supernatural phenomenon and beings, even some that before I read these books, I had never heard of-despite all the paranormal books I read. When the humans start dying off, the supernatural beings that have been there all along, become much more present and visible to the surviving humans. Of course, humans don’t always know what they are seeing.
Amelia works part time as a caretaker of an old lady that lives alone in a six story mansion called, Witch Wood, just outside of town. The house has a rock wall surrounding the land it sits on, with a locking gate. So when she gets there after school, she should be safe, at least for the weekend. But when her mother calls her the next day and is deathly ill, Amelia chooses to leave the safety of the mist shrouded home to check on her mom. The old lady, Madame Knightly, doesn’t want Amelia to leave, but knows she can’t stop her. The town Amelia left the night before is no longer peaceful, instead it’s full of angry people, burning buildings, and strange cannibalistic beings that are no longer really alive.
What follows is an exciting thriller of a story, and ends up being quite the wild ride, albeit a short one. As in the previous installments,the author’s main characters are fully realized and the fact that it’s a novella doesn’t change that. It is a fairly short read, but one that was well worth the time(and purchase price)for me. These were new characters to the story, ones that hopefully will be more fully explored in the next book, so it’s not just a filler story, but one that is important to the whole.
I highly recommend this, and the whole series to older young adults and adults. It’s billed as a standalone, but it really would make much more sense in the context of the whole series.
This is the second novella in the four stories that have been written so far, about this dystopian world, or the zombie apocalypse-if you want to call it that. The author has taken that premise and added all sorts of supernatural phenomenon and beings, even some that before I read these books, I had never heard of-despite all the paranormal books I read. When the humans start dying off, the supernatural beings that have been there all along, become much more present and visible to the surviving humans. Of course, humans don’t always know what they are seeing.
Amelia works part time as a caretaker of an old lady that lives alone in a six story mansion called, Witch Wood, just outside of town. The house has a rock wall surrounding the land it sits on, with a locking gate. So when she gets there after school, she should be safe, at least for the weekend. But when her mother calls her the next day and is deathly ill, Amelia chooses to leave the safety of the mist shrouded home to check on her mom. The old lady, Madame Knightly, doesn’t want Amelia to leave, but knows she can’t stop her. The town Amelia left the night before is no longer peaceful, instead it’s full of angry people, burning buildings, and strange cannibalistic beings that are no longer really alive.
What follows is an exciting thriller of a story, and ends up being quite the wild ride, albeit a short one. As in the previous installments,the author’s main characters are fully realized and the fact that it’s a novella doesn’t change that. It is a fairly short read, but one that was well worth the time(and purchase price)for me. These were new characters to the story, ones that hopefully will be more fully explored in the next book, so it’s not just a filler story, but one that is important to the whole.
I highly recommend this, and the whole series to older young adults and adults. It’s billed as a standalone, but it really would make much more sense in the context of the whole series.
August 13, 2016
4.5 Stars
Witch Wood is the latest novella in The Harvesting series, which once again focuses on the introduction of a new set of characters and sets up the story for the next full length novel. The entire concept of introducing characters in their own novellas is one seriously awesome way to let them shine on their own before they meet the main cast and things get even more crazy.
Amelia is a young woman, high school aged, with the innate ability for magic. She’s a practicing Wiccan, who focuses on the positives around her to heal and provide. She’s confident, strong willed, and caring; and I can already see how well she’ll balance out the eventual trifecta of strong women in the overall series. At this point I’d be more shocked if Karsak created a main character who I didn’t like almost immediately. That being said, she’s damn good at making side characters who can ruffle feathers or do outright evil.
Witch Wood Estate seems like one really beautiful and mysterious place, and I’m really excited to see how it will play into the future novel. In my mind it’s a small more enclosed Baltimore, with grounds full of crops and vines and an almost protective air to it’s shadow.
At this point I’m not sure what I can say about Kristen James’ narration work that I haven’t already, but I will say she gets better with each one. She has a true talent and you can tell just how much she cares for her craft in the attention to making the characters sound different and infusing as much life and emotion into her reading.
I’m sad that I have to wait for the next book, but I’m super excited to see how the series will end. I definitely can’t wait to see how Amelia meshes with Cricket and Layla, and how the groups find their new setting.
Witch Wood is the latest novella in The Harvesting series, which once again focuses on the introduction of a new set of characters and sets up the story for the next full length novel. The entire concept of introducing characters in their own novellas is one seriously awesome way to let them shine on their own before they meet the main cast and things get even more crazy.
Amelia is a young woman, high school aged, with the innate ability for magic. She’s a practicing Wiccan, who focuses on the positives around her to heal and provide. She’s confident, strong willed, and caring; and I can already see how well she’ll balance out the eventual trifecta of strong women in the overall series. At this point I’d be more shocked if Karsak created a main character who I didn’t like almost immediately. That being said, she’s damn good at making side characters who can ruffle feathers or do outright evil.
Witch Wood Estate seems like one really beautiful and mysterious place, and I’m really excited to see how it will play into the future novel. In my mind it’s a small more enclosed Baltimore, with grounds full of crops and vines and an almost protective air to it’s shadow.
At this point I’m not sure what I can say about Kristen James’ narration work that I haven’t already, but I will say she gets better with each one. She has a true talent and you can tell just how much she cares for her craft in the attention to making the characters sound different and infusing as much life and emotion into her reading.
I’m sad that I have to wait for the next book, but I’m super excited to see how the series will end. I definitely can’t wait to see how Amelia meshes with Cricket and Layla, and how the groups find their new setting.
August 25, 2017
Amelia is a young witch, and spends her spare time earning college money looking after Madame Knightly at her peaceful Witch Wood estate. When the flu virus starts turning local people into zombies, Amelia realises that the only safe place for her and her friends is Witch Wood. But Amelia is not aware of all the secrets of her mentor and her home or how important a part they will play in the coming apocalypse.
This was a short novella in The Harvesting series which I very much enjoy. Amelia is a good character, kind and caring and with great magical potential. She starts learning her trade from her mentor Madame Knightly who has never revealed who or what she really is. If you have read The Shadow Aspect I think you can easily guess the truth about Madame Knightly. Amelia is going to have a lot of time on her hands over the winter to learn all those secrets and develop her skills ready to take her part in the zombie apocalypse and supernatural war. Out of her friends I think I like Zoey the best as she reminds me a bit of Cricket but there are no really awful characters. It makes a nice change to not want some of the cast to die!
This book is a bit slower than the others but there is still some nice zombie action to enjoy. It's difficult to actually say much about the book without posting spoilers as it is short and talking about the interesting parts would reveal everything! Let me just say that this book sets the scene for the last book in the series.
This was a short novella in The Harvesting series which I very much enjoy. Amelia is a good character, kind and caring and with great magical potential. She starts learning her trade from her mentor Madame Knightly who has never revealed who or what she really is. If you have read The Shadow Aspect I think you can easily guess the truth about Madame Knightly. Amelia is going to have a lot of time on her hands over the winter to learn all those secrets and develop her skills ready to take her part in the zombie apocalypse and supernatural war. Out of her friends I think I like Zoey the best as she reminds me a bit of Cricket but there are no really awful characters. It makes a nice change to not want some of the cast to die!
This book is a bit slower than the others but there is still some nice zombie action to enjoy. It's difficult to actually say much about the book without posting spoilers as it is short and talking about the interesting parts would reveal everything! Let me just say that this book sets the scene for the last book in the series.
October 11, 2015
I loved this novella from Melanie Karsak. It's tied into her Harvesting series, but all new characters. Amelia is a witch, or rather she practices Wicca which makes her a bit of an outsider in High School, but none of that matters when a flu like sickness strikes the country and people start becoming zombies.
Since this novella is a quick read I'm having a hard time writing a review about it without spoiling everything. The story is full, the world developed as well as the characters, and when I finished it I was definitely wanting to know more about Amelia's story, but at the same time I didn't feel cheated by the page length. I know that we'll learn more about Amelia in the next Harvesting book, at least I hope we do.
The way that Melanie is starting to weave in more supernatural elements into this series is interesting, it's definitely not your typical zombie series, and that's what I love about this book. Because it's got zombies, but it's so much more than that.
Since this novella is a quick read I'm having a hard time writing a review about it without spoiling everything. The story is full, the world developed as well as the characters, and when I finished it I was definitely wanting to know more about Amelia's story, but at the same time I didn't feel cheated by the page length. I know that we'll learn more about Amelia in the next Harvesting book, at least I hope we do.
The way that Melanie is starting to weave in more supernatural elements into this series is interesting, it's definitely not your typical zombie series, and that's what I love about this book. Because it's got zombies, but it's so much more than that.
August 15, 2018
This was another book I read for a reading challenge so I went in without knowing anything about the book or the series. My only expectations came from the title and the beginning of the story which seemed to be about a girl with some witchy gifts and a job at a magical mansion. I started to realise this wasn't the case about a quarter of the way in when it was mentioned that other schools and businesses were closed due to a very bad flu...
From there it went from a witchy story to a apocalyptic/walking dead type story and all hell broke loose. While this type of story is not usually something i enjoy or even particularly choose to read when i ave a choice, I found this story somewhat intriguing and by the end was actually curios to read more of the series.
A relatively solid story and i give it 3 stars
From there it went from a witchy story to a apocalyptic/walking dead type story and all hell broke loose. While this type of story is not usually something i enjoy or even particularly choose to read when i ave a choice, I found this story somewhat intriguing and by the end was actually curios to read more of the series.
A relatively solid story and i give it 3 stars
January 8, 2016
I won an audible copy during a giveaway and the opinions expressed here are unbiased and my own.
What a unique and captivating tale with a twist! Fast paced story line with a well written plot and strong characters This is my first of The Harvesting series and cannot wait to delve into the other ones.
The narrator also did a superb job in reading this.
December 29, 2019
Being a fan of Melanie Karsak (I adore The Airship Racing Chronicles and The Chancellor Fairytales), I tried to pick up the first book in The Harvesting Series, but I didn’t like Layla the main character, which is sad since I love zombie stories. Amelia is a whole lot easier of a heroine for me to like. She’s sweet, she’s awkward, she’s got a rounded personality that loves wiccan things, talking to trees, and trying to help the world around her and she loves her mother, and the two have a fun relationship. I also love her crush on a boy at school, that she has a friend at school, and I love her relationship with Miss Knightly, the caretaker of Witchwood Estate. I adored Witchwood Estate with its whimsical hedge maze, mysterious fog, rusting gate, and all of the rooms to be dusted, even though they really only use a couple of the rooms for living in. In this installment, we get to see the outbreak of the epidemic from Amelia’s small town and introduced to her as a new main character. I also loved the breakdown of society as the “flu” ravaged the country (which you can totally picture happening each winter season when colds start taking everyone around us). The zombies themselves felt standard, but then do we really expect blood/flesh hungering creatures that the population has turned into to be complex or have more to them? The story also has a nice touch of fantasy paranormal with Amelia’s wiccan aura powers and the mysteries of Witchwood. I read this as a standalone and it was easy to follow without having picked up the rest of the series. This can also be read by a YA audience that likes a bit of violence.
February 11, 2018
I like Amelia as much as I liked Cricket. The thing with the magical enemies was fun but almost too much. I think mostly the problem is motivation. Why would any magical creatures care if humanity survived.
Other characters get a passable description but not as completely as Amelia. Still don't understand where her powers originate.
The vampires existing unnoticed for thousands of years among humans is stretching it. I have watched "Supernatural" from the first episode, yet these vampires don't ring true. The battlefield alliance of vampire and kitsune doesn't make sense. Vampire control of the undead I can accept but the weird incomplete or inconsistent description of their other powers makes it a hard read.
Other characters get a passable description but not as completely as Amelia. Still don't understand where her powers originate.
The vampires existing unnoticed for thousands of years among humans is stretching it. I have watched "Supernatural" from the first episode, yet these vampires don't ring true. The battlefield alliance of vampire and kitsune doesn't make sense. Vampire control of the undead I can accept but the weird incomplete or inconsistent description of their other powers makes it a hard read.
February 4, 2019
Witch Wood is a fun little read that fills in the gaps just like Midway did written by Melanie Karsak. This one was a great addition to the series that guides us soon to the next part of the series. The plot shows how the zombie plague hit in Brighton and how the people handle it there, particularly Amelia and her friends, some key players to come. The plot is well thought through and follows a great pace that doesn't drag out nor did I ever feel rushed through the story. There are some nice twists in this book as well that add beautifully to the series. We are also learning some nice secrets, finally, that are shedding some light on the greater picture.
Amelia is an adorable character, maybe not the physically strongest but mentally she packs a punch. Being a Wicca gives her some advantages in this new world to come and even with her powers she still doesn't realize all what is around her. Some made me giggle. Madame Knightly was also a great character who I really enjoyed a lot and am happy that she is part of this story.
You can definitely tell that this story will climax soon and I for one need to know how this all will end! Thank you binge reading :)
Amelia is an adorable character, maybe not the physically strongest but mentally she packs a punch. Being a Wicca gives her some advantages in this new world to come and even with her powers she still doesn't realize all what is around her. Some made me giggle. Madame Knightly was also a great character who I really enjoyed a lot and am happy that she is part of this story.
You can definitely tell that this story will climax soon and I for one need to know how this all will end! Thank you binge reading :)
February 28, 2020
A teenage witch in a zombie apocalypse.
This is the 4th book in the Harvesting series by Melanie Karsak and is roughly parallel in time to the first two. It starts off as a high school story about a girl, Amelia, who gets taunted for thinking she's a witch. Only she is: partly self taught and partly through the old lady in a big mansion she helps out on weekends. Of course Mrs Knightlley is more than she seems. And Amelia looks to be with Layla and Cricket on the cover of volume 5 (Torn World).
This is the 4th book in the Harvesting series by Melanie Karsak and is roughly parallel in time to the first two. It starts off as a high school story about a girl, Amelia, who gets taunted for thinking she's a witch. Only she is: partly self taught and partly through the old lady in a big mansion she helps out on weekends. Of course Mrs Knightlley is more than she seems. And Amelia looks to be with Layla and Cricket on the cover of volume 5 (Torn World).
June 28, 2021
Book Two, Three and Four
Book 2 introduced a new primary heroine, Cricket and her mutt , Puck. This abrupt change confused me until her parallel adventures drew me in and I realized sooner or later the two were going to join up. Sure enough Book 3 continued the girls fight against the undead, the thinking undead, the Vampires and the earth spirits. Book 4 stars another new heroine, Amelia. She’s a follower of Wicca who manages to save a small band of friends when the pandemic comes to her town. The “surprise “ ending is somewhat predictable but pleasing. On to Book 5!
Book 2 introduced a new primary heroine, Cricket and her mutt , Puck. This abrupt change confused me until her parallel adventures drew me in and I realized sooner or later the two were going to join up. Sure enough Book 3 continued the girls fight against the undead, the thinking undead, the Vampires and the earth spirits. Book 4 stars another new heroine, Amelia. She’s a follower of Wicca who manages to save a small band of friends when the pandemic comes to her town. The “surprise “ ending is somewhat predictable but pleasing. On to Book 5!
September 15, 2017
I love this series!!!
This book focused on Amelia, a good witch who practices Wicca and healing magic.
She is a senior in high school when the virus breaks out. She leads her friends and some of their acquaintances to Witch Wood estate, where she has spent many years helping an elderly lady there.
The survivors from the first books end up making their way there as well. There is non stop zombie action and the book is a super fast read.
This book focused on Amelia, a good witch who practices Wicca and healing magic.
She is a senior in high school when the virus breaks out. She leads her friends and some of their acquaintances to Witch Wood estate, where she has spent many years helping an elderly lady there.
The survivors from the first books end up making their way there as well. There is non stop zombie action and the book is a super fast read.
February 21, 2021
Harvesting
An action and budding romance series about the zombie apocalypse. The books are really well written with a lot of details and scenery that doesn't detract from the overall story. There are a lot of clichés in the books but they all worked. I only gave 4 stars because there were a handful of errors in the books using the incorrect word that I could not ignore. Overall an interesting zombie book series with a fairy tale twist.
An action and budding romance series about the zombie apocalypse. The books are really well written with a lot of details and scenery that doesn't detract from the overall story. There are a lot of clichés in the books but they all worked. I only gave 4 stars because there were a handful of errors in the books using the incorrect word that I could not ignore. Overall an interesting zombie book series with a fairy tale twist.
May 5, 2021
Witch Wood is the 4th story in the Harvesting series.
In this shorter novella, we get to meet Amelia. Still in high school, a practicing wiccan, her life get completely turned upside down when the apocalypse finally finds her hometown.
I love this closer look into these different characters that the author has created with each novella. I cant wait to see how this story ties in with the main storyline and Layla! The audio narration is very well done also!!
In this shorter novella, we get to meet Amelia. Still in high school, a practicing wiccan, her life get completely turned upside down when the apocalypse finally finds her hometown.
I love this closer look into these different characters that the author has created with each novella. I cant wait to see how this story ties in with the main storyline and Layla! The audio narration is very well done also!!
May 29, 2021
Another great character introduction!!
Witch Wood is the fourth book in The Harvesting Series. Witch Wood is a short novella that introduces Amelia to the story. Amelia is a practicing Wicca Witch who can see other people’s aura. So far I have really enjoyed this series and I have loved the way she is introduces her new heroine’s to the story. Great job!!
Witch Wood is the fourth book in The Harvesting Series. Witch Wood is a short novella that introduces Amelia to the story. Amelia is a practicing Wicca Witch who can see other people’s aura. So far I have really enjoyed this series and I have loved the way she is introduces her new heroine’s to the story. Great job!!
March 27, 2021
Another Great Book
Even though this is a series each story has a different perspective from different characters. The writer keeps changing the characters backgrounds to each storyline so you can enjoy the characters journey in this post apocalyptic world.
Even though this is a series each story has a different perspective from different characters. The writer keeps changing the characters backgrounds to each storyline so you can enjoy the characters journey in this post apocalyptic world.
October 26, 2022
Live all the twist and turns
Who hat can I say its been a great ride. Love the different the different twists this author has taken us through except I would rather had both books four and five been condense into one longer one look
Who hat can I say its been a great ride. Love the different the different twists this author has taken us through except I would rather had both books four and five been condense into one longer one look
December 27, 2024
great start but too short!
A lot of fun! I liked the Wiccan elements blended in. I would have liked to see a full book around the main character and Madame Knightly, as well as what happens next.
A lot of fun! I liked the Wiccan elements blended in. I would have liked to see a full book around the main character and Madame Knightly, as well as what happens next.
July 14, 2017
Good stuff
I don't always enjoy books of this genre but am thoroughly enjoying the books by Melanie Karsak's work. The are well crafted stories with believable characters.
I don't always enjoy books of this genre but am thoroughly enjoying the books by Melanie Karsak's work. The are well crafted stories with believable characters.
September 13, 2017
The last novella in this series explaining some of the things that happened at Witch Wood while Layla and the others were battling vampires, ghouls, zombies and unseelie.
December 7, 2017
So far my favorite of The Harvesting series.
May 27, 2018
Would have liked it to be longer.
June 7, 2018
~*Note: contains graphic sex language*~
November 11, 2019
New characters to meet
As with book two , this book is shorter and introduces new characters. The story line is fascinating and puts a whole new spin on zombie apocalypse.
As with book two , this book is shorter and introduces new characters. The story line is fascinating and puts a whole new spin on zombie apocalypse.
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